The experimental distention of dissected bile duct for the restoration of its continuity in dogs using a device of own construction.

PURPOSE The segmental resection of constricted bile duct and end-to-end biliary anastomosis could be an attractive alternative in the treatment of benign biliary tract stricture. The aim of this study was to restore the anatomical integrity of the hepatic-common bile duct after an artificially produced defect while maintaining the large duodenal papilla, using microsurgical technique. MATERIAL AND METHODS The experiments were carried out on 25 mongrel dogs. The common bile duct was ligated in all of the animals during laparotomy, as a model of bile duct obstruction in humans. Relaparotomy was performed 3 days after the initial operation. The segment of bile duct, 4 cm in length was resected together with the ligature. The continuous bile flow into the duodenum was assured by a polyvinyl catheter introduced into both ends of dissected bile duct. The proximal end of the hepatic-common bile duct was fixed to a device constructed by us for the distention of the bile duct (DDBD). The anterior part of the device was exteriorized through a separate fistula and fixed to the abdominal wall. The hepatic-common bile duct distention was gradually continued during 18 days, by pulling out the mobile part of the device. After 18 days the device was removed and the distended proximal end of the hepatic-common bile duct was anastomosed end-to-end with its distal end. The sequels of this procedure were observed for up to 6 months. RESULTS The hepatic-common bile duct was distended 4 cm within 18 days. The histopathological examination has shown partial damage of the duct framework due to the distention and tension. However the patency of the duct was preserved and the recovery of normal structures were observed after the device was removed and anastomosis fashioned. CONCLUSION This method, developed by us, offers the possibility of restoring the integrity of injured extrahepatic bile ducts, allowing effective treatment of benign biliary strictures.